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In most of our homes, it often happens that rice is made in excess and then the next question comes that what to do with the leftover or stale rice? Some people throw them away, while many people heat them and eat them the next day. In some houses, stale rice is considered completely harmful, while in some places it is also said to be good for health. In such a situation, it is common for common people to be confused as to whether eating stale rice is right or wrong?
Actually, various kinds of things are heard regarding stale rice. Some say that it upsets the stomach, while others consider it beneficial to eat it cold. But the truth is that stale rice is good or bad for health. It entirely depends on how they were stored, at what time they were eaten and how they were reheated. Let us tell you in this article whether eating stale rice is right or wrong.
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Health expert shared video
UK based surgeon and content creator Karan Rajan posted a video on his Instagram on 31 December 2025. In this video he is telling the correct way to store and eat stale rice. According to him, leftover rice can actually be better for health. But it is important to know how to store and reheat them properly. Karan says that, if these important rules are not followed, then eating leftover rice can also increase the risk of stomach related problems and food poisoning. So let us know the right way to eat stale rice.
It is important to store stale rice properly
Dr. Rajan explains that it is important to store stale rice properly. Because some bacterial spores may be present in raw rice, which do not die during normal cooking. If cooked rice is left at room temperature for several hours, these spores can become active again, turn into bacteria and grow in the rice. This is why proper storage and reheating is very important, otherwise eating it can cause stomach upset or food poisoning the next day.
These safety tips are important
Dr. Rajan explains that the real danger arises when cooked rice is kept in that bacteria ‘danger zone’ for too long, i.e. in a temperature that is between 5°C to 60°C (40–140°F), because bacteria can grow rapidly in this range. In such a situation, you should follow these tips. For example, once you have cooked rice, it should be kept in the refrigerator within one to two hours. If you have a lot of rice, divide it into several containers and store it. It can be stored in the refrigerator at 40°F (about 4°C) or lower for 3-6 days.
How to reheat stale rice
According to experts, when reheating, reheat the rice all the way to 165°F (about 74°C). However, heating the same rice again and again should be avoided. Because repeatedly heating rice can increase the risk of bacteria growth.
Is it beneficial to eat stale rice?
Dr. Karan Rajan explains that stale rice can be beneficial for your health. They believe that it is not digested as fast as normal carbohydrates. Rather it works like fiber. He explains that leftover rice is better for your health. When cooked rice is cooled, it forms resistant starch, which is a type of fiber that the good bacteria in your gut love. It nourishes beneficial bacteria and increases the production of short-chain fatty acids such as butyrate.
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